OUR MISSION.

To protect surf ecosystems across the globe.

Our Vision.

A world where surf ecosystems are valued and protected, and where surfing provides a vehicle for long-term coastal conservation.

Our Goal.

To protect 1000 surf ecosystems by 2030, in alignment with the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) 30 x 30 goals.

how we do it.

PROTECT.

We create protected areas through our flagship World Surfing Reserve program and Surf Protected Area Networks.

STEWARD.

We manage projects around the world and encourage coastal stewardship through our Save The Waves App.

DEFEND.

We mount international campaigns to defend surf ecosystems under threat and inspire the public to take action.

OUR focus on surf ecosystems.

Waves. Environment. Community.

Put simply, a surf ecosystem is more than a wave – it’s the place, the plants and animals, and people.

Issues we face & mitigate

COASTAL DEVELOPMENT

Harbors, jetties, seawalls, coastal armoring, breakwaters and beach-front construction can destroy or alter both waves and coastal ecosystems.

PLASTIC TRASH AND MARINE DEBRIS

Plastic trash and marine debris impact the coastal environment, economy, and the health and safety of surfers and marine life.

SEA LEVEL RISE & EROSION

While coastal erosion is perfectly natural, development along the coast has made it worse, and climate change induced sea-level rise has made it much worse.

WATER QUALITY

Industrial waste, fertilizers, sewage, toxic runoff, and pesticides–both point and non-point sources of water pollution–have negative effects on the health of surfers and nearshore marine life around the world.

CORAL REEF IMPACT

As corals are destroyed through harmful run-off, destructive fishing practices, and climate change, both the critical ecosystems and the structures that create the waves that we love are lost.

ACCESS

Development and privatization of the coast cuts off local access and enjoyment to some of the most beautiful places in the world. Everyone should be able to enjoy their coastlines and waves.

DONATE TODAY

Support global coastal conservation, make a donation and help Save The Waves environmental efforts around the world.